BMJ Case Rep, 2016 · DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2016-215537 · Published: May 12, 2016
A 67-year-old woman experienced recurrent episodes of left arm and leg weakness and numbness triggered by coughing or sneezing. X-rays revealed an enlarged space and narrowed spinal canal in her cervical spine, indicating atlantoaxial instability. MRI scans confirmed spinal cord compression, particularly on the left side, explaining her symptoms.
Consider cord compression in patients presenting with transient neurological symptoms precipitated by head movements or coughing.
Utilize cervical spine X-rays and MRI to assess for atlantoaxial instability and spinal cord compression.
Vertebral fusion may be a successful treatment for atlantoaxial instability causing cord compression.